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Marlins make their pitch to Wilson in Miami

Marlins make their pitch to Wilson in Miami

MLB.com's Hot Stove chat about C.J. Wilson's visit with the Marlins and other possible free-agent targets for Miami

By Bill Chastain
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MLB.com |

Coveted free agent C.J. Wilson visited Miami on Monday, and according to the Palm Beach Post, the Marlins expressed the sentiment that they want the left-hander to be in South Florida next season.

Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria gave Wilson a personal tour of New Marlins Ballpark.

Wilson's agent, Bob Garber, spoke of the Marlins' treatment during the visit to the Post.

"They rolled out the red carpet," Garber said. "They seem to have a plan and made it very clear they'd like C.J. to be a part of it. I think he really impressed everybody today with his charisma. I think he'd be a great fit in South Florida."

Garber went on to say that a decision about where Wilson will play in 2012 will "probably" be made during Major League Baseball's Winter Meetings that take place Dec. 5-8 in Dallas.

Wilson, who is regarded as the top available pitcher, is coming off a stellar season in Texas, where he was 16-7 with a 2.94 ERA. The left-hander made 34 starts and logged 223 1/3 innings for the Rangers.

The Marlins are actively seeking established starters to bolster their rotation. Wilson brings playoff experience, having reached the World Series the past two years with Texas.

Last week, the Marlins acquired lefty Wade LeBlanc from the Padres for catcher John Baker.

Wilson became the fourth high-profile free agent to visit Miami and tour the new ballpark. A few weeks ago, the team entertained Jose Reyes, Albert Pujols and fellow free-agent lefty Mark Buehrle.

Bill Chastain is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.